Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Central Illinois Recap

December 23rd marked the end of the Illinois central zone duck season. Many reported this as being one of the worst seasons in a decade! Even the top clubs had few ducks up until the last freeze at the end of the season. From the start of the season, the conditions were less than ideal. Warm weather, then excessive flooding of food sources, and more flooding lead to high water, which allowed some ducks to get out of harms way. Late in the season, ice ended hunting in shallower water areas.

Generally, duck numbers were lower in the Illinois River Valley. The average ducks per hunter was down at most locations. All I can say is, better duck next year!